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The dangers of riding a motorcycle on the highway are well documented. However, engaging in risky behavior while riding will only serve to put the rider’s life in further danger.
These days, motorcycles are very powerful machines that are capable of reaching extremely high speeds in a very short space of time. As such, when one is riding on the road, one needs to maintain maximum levels of concentration and avoid unnecessary distractions. They should also make sure their motorcycle has passed an inspection before driving it on the road.
One of the worst things to do is use earbuds to listen to music while riding. An accident can easily occur because the rider failed to hear the horn or the sound of an approaching vehicle.
When this happens, it is best to call a good lawyer quickly. At Powell Law Firm, a team of highly experienced personal injury attorneys is waiting to assist victims who have been injured in motorcycle crashes.
What Does Missouri Law Say?
In Missouri, it is not illegal to use earbuds in both ears while riding a bike. However, there is a recommendation by authorities that riders should leave one ear free for safety reasons. There is no penalty for using them in both ears, though.
Risks of Using Ear Buds While Riding a Motorcycle
Besides having good eyesight, one of the most important things a rider needs is great hearing when traveling on the road. The following are some of the consequences of using earbuds inside a crash helmet while riding:
1. Distraction
When listening to music, particularly a favorite song, it is normal for riders to easily get distracted by the beat and lyrics. Considering the very high speeds that bikers ride at, any distraction for even a few seconds can cause a very serious accident.
2. Blocks Out Important Sounds
There is a reason why vehicles are installed with a horn, and that is because, in case of emergency, it can be the difference between life and death. However, it only works if the rider can hear the horn, which is impossible if they are listening to music.
3. Risk of Getting Tangled
Another common problem is that riders can get entangled by the wires of their headphones, making it difficult to react quickly during an emergency. It should be noted, though, that these days, Bluetooth headphones can eliminate that issue.
4. Can Cause Hearing Damage
The motorcycle itself is very loud. Combined with other traffic noises, riders would have to turn the volume up very high if they wish to hear their music, which is very bad for their hearing.
Proper Way of Using Ear Buds While Riding
If riders absolutely have to have earbuds on while riding, either for recreation or communicating with other riders, the following tips may help:
Adjust Volume
Even though listening to music at a high volume can be fun, doing it while riding at the speed limit is probably not a good idea. The smart thing is to turn down the volume low enough to allow external sounds to be heard.
Use Only When Absolutely Necessary
Earbuds should ideally be used for very important things only, such as talking to other riders or listening to the GPS directions. It is safer to enjoy the music later on when one is parked and still alive.
Go for High-Quality Buds
Good quality earbuds can produce great sound without being turned up too loud. This will allow riders to hear other important sounds and is also good for their hearing.
Leave One Ear Free
It has become a common recommendation in most states, including Missouri, for riders to leave one ear free when using their ear pods while riding. This habit allows them to safely enjoy their music without completely cutting themselves out of their immediate environment.
Powell Law Firm Is Here To Help
As one of the top-tier motorcycle accident attorneys in Missouri, Powell Law Firm has helped many victims of bike accidents walk away with millions of dollars in compensation over the years. That is why hiring Powell Law Firm, the best motorcycle accident attorney in St Louis Missouri, is the best choice for you after being involved in a motorcycle accident.
Our doors are always open to victims who wish to sit down with us and discuss the merits of their case during a free consultation. There is no need to suffer in silence when the experienced team of Powell Law Firm is here to assist.
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